Sign up to save your podcasts
Or
Share Creatine, Brain Health, and Ageing Strong — with Dr Tommy Wood
Share to email
Share to Facebook
Share to X
Share to email
Share to Facebook
Share to X
Or
Creatine, Brain Health, and Ageing Strong — with Dr Tommy Wood
In this week’s BeBattleReady podcast, Simon Ward welcomes back Dr Tommy Wood to explore one of the most researched yet misunderstood supplements - creatine. While most athletes associate it with muscle strength, Tommy explains why its benefits go far beyond the gym, extending to brain health, cognitive function, and ageing well.
Together, they unpack how creatine works, who should consider supplementing, the differences between athletic and cognitive benefits, and why it might be particularly valuable for older athletes and post-menopausal women.
Key Points Discussed:
Originally known for supporting strength and power, creatine also acts as an energy buffer for the brain, helping maintain cellular energy after head trauma and possibly reducing cognitive decline.
While everyone can gain from adequate creatine levels, the strongest evidence shows benefits for older adults, athletes at risk of head injury, and women in peri- and post-menopause — particularly for memory and bone health.
You don’t need the old “loading phase.” Regular small doses (3–5 g daily) are safe and effective. The minor weight gain some notice is simply better muscle hydration, not “bloating.”
Studies show creatine can offset mental fatigue and cognitive decline during sleep deprivation, and even support mood when used alongside standard therapy for depression.
Creatine monohydrate (especially the Creapure® form) remains the gold standard. It’s safe for most people, though those with kidney issues should consult their doctor.
Foods like sardines, herring, mackerel, and red meat also provide natural sources.
Key Quotation:
“Creatine is probably one of the most studied supplements in the world — and on balance, it’s safe, effective, and beneficial for both the body and the brain.”
— Dr Tommy Wood
Connect with Dr. Tommy Wood:
Dr. Tommy Wood's Book (Pre-order now):
Book Recommendations:
Attention Span by Gloria Mark - how to find focus for a fulfilling life.
The Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter - embrace discomfort to reclaim your wild, happy, healthy self.
Join the SWAT Inner Circle
The SWAT Inner Circle is now open. It is the community for athletes and adventurers over 50 who want to train smart, live well, and extend their health span. You can join today CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION
Check out my Instagram and YouTube channel
Join the Unstuck Collective – for Beth’s weekly inspiration and coaching insights (not a chat group; replies welcome via DM).
Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic — https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle
Website: www.simonward.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter
Sign up for Beth’s weekly newsletter
💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to [email protected] — and you might just hear it on a future episode!
View all episodes
By Simon Ward
4.5
2222 ratings
In this week’s BeBattleReady podcast, Simon Ward welcomes back Dr Tommy Wood to explore one of the most researched yet misunderstood supplements - creatine. While most athletes associate it with muscle strength, Tommy explains why its benefits go far beyond the gym, extending to brain health, cognitive function, and ageing well.
Together, they unpack how creatine works, who should consider supplementing, the differences between athletic and cognitive benefits, and why it might be particularly valuable for older athletes and post-menopausal women.
Key Points Discussed:
Originally known for supporting strength and power, creatine also acts as an energy buffer for the brain, helping maintain cellular energy after head trauma and possibly reducing cognitive decline.
While everyone can gain from adequate creatine levels, the strongest evidence shows benefits for older adults, athletes at risk of head injury, and women in peri- and post-menopause — particularly for memory and bone health.
You don’t need the old “loading phase.” Regular small doses (3–5 g daily) are safe and effective. The minor weight gain some notice is simply better muscle hydration, not “bloating.”
Studies show creatine can offset mental fatigue and cognitive decline during sleep deprivation, and even support mood when used alongside standard therapy for depression.
Creatine monohydrate (especially the Creapure® form) remains the gold standard. It’s safe for most people, though those with kidney issues should consult their doctor.
Foods like sardines, herring, mackerel, and red meat also provide natural sources.
Key Quotation:
“Creatine is probably one of the most studied supplements in the world — and on balance, it’s safe, effective, and beneficial for both the body and the brain.”
— Dr Tommy Wood
Connect with Dr. Tommy Wood:
Dr. Tommy Wood's Book (Pre-order now):
Book Recommendations:
Attention Span by Gloria Mark - how to find focus for a fulfilling life.
The Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter - embrace discomfort to reclaim your wild, happy, healthy self.
Join the SWAT Inner Circle
The SWAT Inner Circle is now open. It is the community for athletes and adventurers over 50 who want to train smart, live well, and extend their health span. You can join today CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION
Check out my Instagram and YouTube channel
Join the Unstuck Collective – for Beth’s weekly inspiration and coaching insights (not a chat group; replies welcome via DM).
Download Simon’s Free ‘Battle Ready Lifestyle’ Infographic — https://simon-ward.kit.com/battlereadylifestyle
Website: www.simonward.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter
Sign up for Beth’s weekly newsletter
💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to [email protected] — and you might just hear it on a future episode!
More shows like Simon Ward, Be Battle Ready - The podcast for strength, resilience, and longevity
View all
Ask a Cycling Coach Podcast - Presented by TrainerRoad
3,633 Listeners
Talking Triathlon
97 Listeners
Oxygenaddict Triathlon Podcast
56 Listeners
That Triathlon Show
427 Listeners
The Roadman Cycling Podcast
140 Listeners
Purple Patch Podcast
558 Listeners
Get Fast Podcast - Triathlon, Ironman & Cycling Coaching Advice
22 Listeners
Endurance Unlimited
61 Listeners
Fast Talk
306 Listeners
Professional Triathlon News
175 Listeners
Triathlon Mockery
148 Listeners
The Triathlon Hour
154 Listeners
The Norwegian Method Podcast
30 Listeners
All in Triathlon with Jelle Geens and Aaron Royle
8 Listeners
Junkyard Dogs
6 Listeners